Because of the successful implementation of family planning policy, central China's Henan Province -- the most populous province of the country -- has seen a decrease of more than 6 million births in the past decade, said the provincial statistics bureau.

By the end of 2003, the population of Henan reached 96.67 million. It is estimated to hit 100 million by 2009.

The natural population growth of Henan Province dropped from 18.4 per thousand in 1990 to 5.64 in 2003, below the country's average level for the thirteenth consecutive year, said the bureau Wednesday.

Meanwhile, with improved medical service and living conditions, Henan maintains a low death rate. Life expectancy in Henan was 72.82 years in 2000.

The effective control on population growth has also contributed to the province's economic development. Its gross domestic product (GDP) has quadrupled since 1990, with per capita GDP hitting US$1,000.

(Xinhua News Agency January 7, 2005)